This tasty casserole combines flaky crescent rolls with eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats. It’s a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for brunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crescent Roll Dough: This is the star of the recipe! It provides a flaky and buttery base. If you can’t find crescent rolls, you could use puff pastry as an alternative, though it will have a different texture.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage works too! You can even switch it up with crumbled bacon or make it vegetarian by using diced veggies, like bell peppers and mushrooms.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a delicious creamy flavor. If you’re looking for a change, try pepper jack for a little spice or Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Vegan cheese also makes an excellent substitute here.
Green Onions/Chives: These add fresh flavor and a pop of color. If you don’t have them, try using diced onions or shallots, though you might want to cook them first.
Why Is Cooking the Sausage First Important?
Cooking the sausage beforehand not only ensures it’s fully cooked but also allows you to drain excess grease, preventing a soggy casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a skillet over medium heat to cook the sausage for about 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and crumbly.
- Once cooked, drain the excess grease by tilting the pan and using a spoon or transferring to a paper towel-lined plate.
This step keeps your casserole from being too oily and helps all the flavors blend beautifully!
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Is Perfectly Baked?
Baking at the right temperature is key to a perfectly set casserole. Here’s a few tips:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) as all ovens vary. Keep an eye on it!
- Check the center with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
- If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside finishes cooking.
Following these tips will help you achieve a beautiful and delicious breakfast casserole every time!
Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cooked and crumbled bacon instead of or with sausage
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour if you include some cooling time. It’s perfect for a leisurely breakfast or brunch with family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to keep your casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Once it’s done, drain any excess grease, and set the sausage aside to cool for a minute.
3. Prepare the Crescent Base:
Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure to seal the perforations to create a nice, even crust.
4. Add the Sausage:
Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage evenly over the rolled-out crescent dough, letting that savory flavor seep into the crust!
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour half of the egg mixture over the sausage and crescent layer; it should be evenly distributed.
7. Layer with More Crescent Dough:
Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough. Gently tear it into small pieces and place them evenly over the casserole, covering it as much as possible. Top with the remaining sausage.
8. Add the Remaining Egg Mixture:
Pour the rest of the egg mixture over the top of the casserole, letting it soak through the layers below.
9. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese generously on top for that delicious cheesy goodness!
10. Bake and Enjoy:
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when it’s set and golden brown on top.
11. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing it with more chopped green onions or chives for color and flavor.
12. Serve:
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, comforting breakfast casserole with family and friends!
This Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole is perfect for any morning or special occasion. It’s easy to make, delicious, and sure to please a crowd!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook it the same way as regular sausage, and it will still taste delicious in the casserole!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add a mix of your favorite vegetables instead. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach work wonderfully for a hearty substitute. You might want to sauté the veggies first for extra flavor!
What If I Have Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk or an egg to refresh it.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
